If you’re playing a prerecorded program through an encoder as a YouTube Live broadcast, set the encoder to the source’s resolution and frame rate where possible, use constant bitrate (CBR), and set keyframes every 2 seconds. For 1080p30, YouTube recommends 14 Mbps with H.264 or 10 Mbps with AV1/H.265; for 1080p60, it recommends 17 Mbps with H.264 or 12 Mbps with AV1/H.265. These are live-ingestion recommendations, not ordinary video-upload settings.
Choose the setting for your live workflow
“Pre-recorded stream” can mean either playing a file into YouTube Live through an encoder or uploading a video as a regular YouTube video. The bitrate differs, so choose the row for the workflow you are using.
- Playing a prerecorded program as a live broadcast: use YouTube Live’s ingestion recommendations in the first table below.
- Uploading a regular SDR video: use the separate upload recommendations in the second table. These numbers apply to the uploaded file, not a live broadcast.
YouTube Live bitrate recommendations for 1080p
YouTube’s official live encoder settings table sets recommendations by codec, resolution and frame rate. Use the recommendation—not the minimum—as your target when the connection can sustain it.
| Ingest format | Codec | Minimum video bitrate | Recommended video bitrate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1080p30 | AV1 or H.265 | 4 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| 1080p30 | H.264 | 5 Mbps | 14 Mbps |
| 1080p60 | AV1 or H.265 | 4 Mbps | 12 Mbps |
| 1080p60 | H.264 | 6 Mbps | 17 Mbps |
Source: YouTube Help: Choose live encoder settings, bitrates, and resolutions. The table concerns the video bitrate being sent to YouTube Live; do not treat its minimums as equivalent to the recommended targets.
Recommended Free Tools
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Encoder settings to pair with the bitrate
- Resolution and frame rate: match the prerecorded source where possible. Select the bitrate row that matches what your encoder actually sends to YouTube.
- Video codec: H.264, H.265 (HEVC), or AV1.
- Rate control: CBR, or constant bitrate.
- Keyframes: set a 2-second interval; do not exceed 4 seconds between keyframes.
- Audio: AAC or MP3. YouTube lists 128 Kbps for stereo audio.
- Color: Rec. 709 for SDR.
- Protocol: use RTMPS, YouTube’s encrypted extension to RTMP.
These are YouTube’s general RTMP/RTMPS encoder recommendations. The platform does not publish a separate live bitrate table specifically for prerecorded files.
Leave enough upload bandwidth
The recommended bitrate is not the full connection requirement. YouTube advises keeping total outgoing bitrate within available upload bandwidth and leaving 20% headroom. Include audio and any backup feed in the total.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- Measure upload capacity in advance and check that it can carry the total outgoing stream bitrate plus headroom.
- Use a reliable connection and test before the broadcast.
- During the test, use audio and video movement similar to the actual program, then monitor YouTube’s stream health and messages.
See YouTube’s live encoder settings and streaming tips.
If you meant a regular video upload
For an SDR upload at 1080p, YouTube’s separate encoding recommendations are:
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Frame rate | Recommended upload bitrate |
|---|---|
| 24, 25 or 30 fps | 8 Mbps |
| 48, 50 or 60 fps | 12 Mbps |
Those figures are for the video file uploaded as a normal video, not a program sent to YouTube Live. See YouTube’s upload encoding settings.
Do you need a hardware encoder?
No. YouTube supports encoder software as well as standalone hardware. Hardware can make sense when a production needs external audio/video equipment or a more advanced multi-camera setup; it is not a requirement for every 1080p live broadcast. YouTube’s encoder overview describes the distinction.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Keep a prerecorded program live without leaving a computer running
If the job is to keep uploaded prerecorded video playing on a YouTube channel 24/7, StreamNeo is the cloud option to try first: upload your video or make a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. It loops from the cloud, so your computer and home connection do not need to stay on. Each slot streams the uploaded quality up to 4K 60fps at one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream.
StreamNeo plays uploaded videos to YouTube; it does not stream from a camera or to other platforms. It includes 10 GB of storage per slot, pooled across active slots. The first day is free with no card, once per account. For Indian customers, UPI and cards are supported; card checkout is available worldwide. See StreamNeo for details.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Monthly: $9.99 per month.
Start your free first day with StreamNeo.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
